Bernadette, Virgin

The oldest child of a family living in extreme poverty in Lourdes, France, Bernadette was born in January, 1844. Never healthy in her lifetime, she suffered asthma and other maladies during her childhood that stunted her growth and kept her from attending school. The result, and Bernadette’s inability to read, meant that she could not receive her First Communion until she was about fourteen. It was at about this time that Bernadette experienced her visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. These visions continued for some time, and in the end, many people believed because of her. The city of Lourdes remains a holy place and a pilgrimage destination for many today.

All of us have been given gifts by God, even those who are suffering. We are meant to use these gifts for the benefit of those around us.